Q.The sign of work done by a force on a body is important to understand. State carefully if the following quantities are positive or negative:
Concept understanding — Dot Product Angle
The Dot Product and the Angle Between Vectors
Imagine you're pushing a heavy box across the floor. You push at an angle — not straight forward, but partly downward and partly forward. The part of your push that actually moves the box is only the forward component. The downward part just presses the box into the floor.
That's the core intuition behind the dot product: it measures how much one vector "goes in the direction of" another vector.
Step 1: What is a dot product?
Given two vectors a and b in 2D or 3D space, their dot product (also called the scalar product) is defined algebraically as:
a⋅b=a1b1+a2b2+a3b3
You multiply corresponding components and add them up. The result is a single number (a scalar), not a vector.
For example, if a=(3,4) and b=(2,−1), then:
a⋅b=3×2+4×(−1)=6−4=2
Step 2: The geometric meaning — the angle connection
Here's the beautiful part. The dot product also has a completely different geometric definition:
a⋅b=∣a∣∣b∣cosθ
where ∣a∣ and ∣b∣ are the magnitudes (lengths) of the vectors, and θ is the angle between them when they're placed tail-to-tail.
This is the dot product angle formula. It connects algebra (component multiplication) to geometry (angle and length).
Step 3: Why does this make sense?
Think about the extreme cases:
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Vectors point in the same direction (θ=0∘): cos0=1, so a⋅b=∣a∣∣b∣ — the maximum possible value. All of one vector's "push" is in the other's direction.
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Vectors are perpendicular (θ=90∘): cos90∘=0, so a⋅b=0. Neither vector has any component along the other. This is a crucial test for orthogonality.
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Vectors point opposite (θ=180∘): cos180∘=−1, so a⋅b=−∣a∣∣b∣ — the most negative value. They're completely against each other.
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Any other angle: the dot product is somewhere between these extremes, proportional to how much one vector "projects" onto the other.
The dot product is positive when the angle is acute (<90∘), zero when perpendicular, and negative when obtuse (>90∘). This sign alone tells you whether the vectors are generally aligned or opposed.
Step 4: Finding the angle from the dot product
If you know the components of two vectors, you can find the angle between them by rearranging the formula:
cosθ=∣a∣∣b∣a⋅b
Then use θ=cos−1(that value).
Example: Find the angle between a=(1,2) and b=(3,4).
- Compute dot product: 1×3+2×4=3+8=11
- Compute magnitudes: ∣a∣=12+22=5, ∣b∣=32+42=5
- cosθ=5×511=5511≈0.9839
- θ=cos−1(0.9839)≈10.3∘
The vectors are nearly aligned.
The dot product formula gives cosθ, not θ itself. Always take the inverse cosine. Also, the formula works for vectors of any dimension — 2D, 3D, even 100D — as long as you use the component definition.
Step 5: The precise statement
For any two non-zero vectors a and b in Rn, the dot product satisfies:
a⋅b=∣a∣∣b∣cosθ
where θ is the angle between them, 0∘≤θ≤180∘. This is equivalent to the component-wise definition:
a⋅b=∑i=1naibi
The two definitions are not separate — they are the same quantity expressed in different forms. The component form is how you compute it; the geometric form is what it means.
Why this matters
The dot product angle formula is the foundation for:
- Projections: finding how much of one vector lies along another
- Work in physics: W=F⋅d — only the force component along displacement does work
- Orthogonality tests: two vectors are perpendicular iff their dot product is zero
- Cosine similarity: used in machine learning to compare directions of data vectors
Every time you see a dot product, think: "This is telling me how aligned these two directions are."
For quick revision, remember that Dot Product Angle is a core, NCERT-aligned topic from the Work, Energy and Power (vectors) portion of the Class 11 Physics curriculum, and it is tested regularly in CBSE board exams as well as in JEE Main and NEET, which is exactly why "Dot Product Angle important questions" shows up so often in Physics question banks. The clearest way to build exam confidence here is to combine this explanation with the NCERT Physics textbook's own solved examples and chapter-end questions.
The key idea is the definition of work done by a constant force F over a displacement d, given by W=F⋅d=Fdcosθ, where θ is the angle between the force and displacement vectors.
- The man applies an upward force, and the bucket's displacement is upward. Since the force and displacement are in the same direction (θ=0∘), the work done is positive.
- The gravitational force acts downward, while the bucket's displacement is upward. Since the force and displacement are in opposite directions (θ=180∘), the work done is negative.
- The frictional force acts up the inclined plane (opposing motion), while the body's displacement is down the inclined plane. Since the force and displacement are in opposite directions (θ=180∘), the work done is negative.
- For uniform velocity on a rough horizontal plane, the applied force must be equal and opposite to the frictional force, thus acting in the direction of motion. Since the applied force and displacement are in the same direction (θ=0∘), the work done is positive.
- The resistive force of air always opposes the motion of the pendulum. Since the resistive force and the pendulum's displacement are always in opposite directions (θ=180∘), the work done is negative.
✓Final answer
- The work done by the man is positive.
- The work done by gravitational force is negative.
- The work done by friction is negative.
- The work done by the applied force is positive.
- The work done by the resistive force of air is negative.
The sign of work done depends on the angle between the force and the displacement: positive if the angle is acute, negative if obtuse, and zero if perpendicular.
- Positive.
- Negative.
- Negative.
- Positive.
- Negative.
Understanding the sign of work done is fundamental in physics, as it tells us whether a force is adding energy to a system, removing energy, or doing neither. Work, in physics, is defined as the product of the component of the force in the direction of the displacement and the magnitude of the displacement. Mathematically, for a constant force F causing a displacement d, the work done W is given by the dot product:
W=F⋅d=Fdcosθ
Here, F is the magnitude of the force, d is the magnitude of the displacement, and θ is the angle between the force vector F and the displacement vector d.
The sign of cosθ directly determines the sign of the work done:
- If 0∘≤θ<90∘, then cosθ is positive, and thus W is positive. This means the force has a component in the direction of motion, aiding the motion or increasing the body's energy.
- If θ=90∘, then cosθ=0, and thus W is zero. The force is perpendicular to the displacement and does no work.
- If 90∘<θ≤180∘, then cosθ is negative, and thus W is negative. This means the force has a component opposite to the direction of motion, opposing the motion or decreasing the body's energy.
Let's apply this understanding to each scenario:
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(a) Work done by a man in lifting a bucket out of a well by means of a rope tied to the bucket.
- Force: The man applies an upward force on the rope, which in turn pulls the bucket upward.
- Displacement: The bucket moves upward as it is lifted out of the well.
- Angle θ: Both the applied force and the displacement are in the same upward direction. Therefore, θ=0∘.
- Sign of Work: Since cos(0∘)=1 (positive), the work done by the man is positive. The man is expending energy to lift the bucket.
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(b) Work done by gravitational force in the above case,
- Force: The gravitational force (weight) on the bucket acts vertically downward.
- Displacement: As before, the bucket moves upward.
- Angle θ: The gravitational force is downward, while the displacement is upward. They are in opposite directions. Therefore, θ=180∘.
- Sign of Work: Since cos(180∘)=−1 (negative), the work done by the gravitational force is negative. Gravity is opposing the upward motion, and the bucket is gaining gravitational potential energy.
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(c) Work done by friction on a body sliding down an inclined plane,
- Force: The frictional force always opposes the relative motion between surfaces. If the body is sliding down the inclined plane, the frictional force acts up the inclined plane.
- Displacement: The body moves down the inclined plane.
- Angle θ: The frictional force is up the incline, and the displacement is down the incline. They are in opposite directions. Therefore, θ=180∘.
- Sign of Work: Since cos(180∘)=−1 (negative), the work done by friction is negative. Friction always dissipates mechanical energy as heat.
-
(d) Work done by an applied force on a body moving on a rough horizontal plane with uniform velocity,
- Force: An external force is applied to the body. Since the body moves with uniform velocity, its acceleration is zero, meaning the net force on it is zero. On a rough horizontal plane, there is a frictional force opposing motion. For uniform velocity, the applied force must be equal in magnitude and opposite in direction to the frictional force. Thus, the applied force acts in the direction of motion.
- Displacement: The body moves in the direction of its velocity.
- Angle θ: The applied force is in the direction of motion, and the displacement is also in the direction of motion. Therefore, θ=0∘.
- Sign of Work: Since cos(0∘)=1 (positive), the work done by the applied force is positive. The applied force is doing work to overcome friction and maintain the body's motion.
NoteWhile the work done by the applied force is positive, the work done by friction in this case would be negative (as it opposes motion). The net work done on the body is zero, consistent with the Work-Energy Theorem, as the kinetic energy of the body remains constant (uniform velocity).
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(e) Work done by the resistive force of air on a vibrating pendulum in bringing it to rest.
- Force: The resistive force of air (air drag) always opposes the direction of motion (velocity) of the pendulum bob.
- Displacement: At any instant, the pendulum bob moves in the direction of its instantaneous velocity.
- Angle θ: The resistive force of air is always opposite to the direction of the pendulum's instantaneous displacement. Therefore, θ=180∘.
- Sign of Work: Since cos(180∘)=−1 (negative), the work done by the resistive force of air is negative. This negative work continuously removes mechanical energy from the pendulum, causing its amplitude to decrease until it eventually comes to rest.
The signs of the work done are:
- Positive.
- Negative.
- Negative.
- Positive.
- Negative.
Concept: Sign of Work Done — Angle Between Force and Displacement
Step 1: Recall the rule.
W=Fdcosθ: positive if θ<90∘ (force aids motion), negative if θ>90∘ (force opposes motion), zero if θ=90∘.
Step 2: Identify the force and displacement directions in each case.
- Man's force (up) and bucket's displacement (up) — same direction.
- Gravity (down) while bucket moves up — opposite directions.
- Friction (up the incline) while the body slides down — opposite directions.
- At uniform velocity on a rough plane, the applied force must equal and oppose friction, so it acts along the direction of motion.
- Air resistance always opposes the pendulum's instantaneous velocity — opposite direction. Step 3: Assign the sign from cosθ in each case. Final Answer:
(a) Positive, (b) Negative, (c) Negative, (d) Positive, (e) Negative
- TG EAPCET 2025Set eng-2025-05-04-AN1 markMCQQ.If the kinetic energy of a body moving with a velocity of (2i^+3j^−4k^) ms−1 is 87 J, then the mass of the body is (A) 3 kg (B) 12 kg (C) 9 kg (D) 6 kg
›Reveal solutionSolution
The kinetic energy formula K=21mv2 uses the speed (magnitude of velocity), not the velocity vector itself.
Given K=87 J and v=2i^+3j^−4k^ m/s, we find v2=29 m²/s², so m=v22K=29174=6 kg.
The correct option is (D).
Concept & Intuition
Kinetic energy depends only on the speed of an object, not its direction. The velocity vector tells us the direction and magnitude; we need to extract the magnitude (the speed) by taking the square root of the sum of squares of its components. Then we plug that speed into the scalar kinetic energy formula. A common mistake is to treat the vector’s components as if they contribute separately to kinetic energy — but energy is a scalar, so only the total speed matters.
Step-by-step solution
- Recall the kinetic energy formula For a body of mass m moving with speed v,
K=21mv2.
Here K=87 J is given, and we need m.
- Find the speed from the velocity vector Velocity v=2i^+3j^−4k^ m/s. Speed v is the magnitude:
v=(2)2+(3)2+(−4)2=4+9+16=29 m/s.
So v2=29 m²/s².
- Solve for mass Rearrange the kinetic energy formula:
m=v22K.
Substitute:
m=292×87=29174=6 kg.
- Match with options The value 6 kg corresponds to option (D).
Watch outA common pitfall is to think kinetic energy depends on each component separately, e.g., trying K=21m(vx2+vy2+vz2) — but that is correct because v2=vx2+vy2+vz2. The mistake is forgetting to square the components or using the vector itself instead of its magnitude. Here, if you mistakenly used v=2+3−4=1 m/s, you’d get m=174 kg, which isn’t even an option — a good sanity check!
TipNotice that v2=29 is prime, so the only way 2K/v2 is a nice integer is if K is a multiple of 29. Indeed, 87=3×29, so m=2×3=6 kg. Spotting such factor relationships can speed up multiple-choice checks.
✓Final answerThe correct option is (D).
ANSWER: D
- TG EAPCET 2025Set eng-2025-05-04-FN1 markMCQQ.If the kinetic energy of a body moving with a velocity of (2i+3j−4k) ms−1 is 87 J, then the mass of the body is (A) 3 kg (B) 12 kg (C) 6 kg (D) 9 kg
›Reveal solutionSolution
Kinetic energy depends only on the magnitude of velocity, not its direction. The magnitude of the given velocity vector is 29 m/s, and using K=21mv2 gives m=6 kg.
The problem gives you a velocity vector and a kinetic energy, and asks for mass. The key idea is that kinetic energy is a scalar — it doesn't care about which way the body is moving, only how fast. So you never need to worry about the individual components of v beyond finding the speed.
The formula for kinetic energy is K=21mv2, where v is the magnitude of velocity (the speed). If you know K and v, you can solve for m.
- Find the speed from the velocity vector. The velocity is v=2i^+3j^−4k^ m/s. The magnitude is:
v=(2)2+(3)2+(−4)2=4+9+16=29 m/s
- Use the kinetic energy equation. Given K=87 J, we have:
87=21m(29)2
Since (29)2=29, this becomes:
87=21m×29
- Solve for m. Multiply both sides by 2:
174=29m
Then divide by 29:
m=29174=6 kg
Watch outA common mistake is to plug the vector components directly into K=21mv2 as if v were the vector itself. Remember: v in the kinetic energy formula is the magnitude (speed), not the vector. Squaring a vector component-by-component and adding is correct — but only because that's how you find the magnitude squared.
✓Final answerThe mass of the body is 6 kg, which corresponds to option (C).
- TG EAPCET 2025Set ap-2025-04-30-FN1 markMCQQ.Two vectors are given by A=i^−2j^+3k^ and B=2i^−4j^+3k^. The unit vector along A+B is (A) 3i^−6j^+6k^ (B) 3i^−2j^+2k^ (C) 7i^+2j^+2k^ (D) 33i^+4j^+5k^
›Reveal solutionSolution
To find the unit vector along the sum of two vectors, first add the vectors component-wise to get the resultant vector. Then, divide this resultant vector by its magnitude. The unit vector along A+B is 3i^−2j^+2k^.
When working with vectors, we often need to describe a direction without being concerned about the magnitude. This is precisely the purpose of a unit vector. A unit vector is a vector that has a magnitude of 1 and points in a specific direction. To find the unit vector in the direction of any given vector, say V, we simply divide the vector V by its own magnitude, ∣V∣. This process normalizes the vector, scaling it down (or up) so that its length becomes exactly 1, while preserving its original direction.
In this problem, we are asked to find the unit vector along the sum of two vectors, A and B. This means our first step must be to find the resultant vector R=A+B. Once we have this resultant vector, we will calculate its magnitude and then divide R by ∣R∣ to obtain the desired unit vector.
Here's how we proceed:
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Calculate the resultant vector R=A+B:
Vector addition is performed by adding the corresponding components (x, y, and z) of the individual vectors.
Given:
A=i^−2j^+3k^
B=2i^−4j^+3k^
Adding them:
R=(1i^+2i^)+(−2j^−4j^)+(3k^+3k^)
R=(1+2)i^+(−2−4)j^+(3+3)k^
R=3i^−6j^+6k^
Watch outA common mistake is to forget the signs of the components during addition. Always pay close attention to whether a component is positive or negative.
-
Calculate the magnitude of the resultant vector ∣R∣:
The magnitude of a vector V=Vxi^+Vyj^+Vzk^ is given by the formula:
∣V∣=Vx2+Vy2+Vz2
For our resultant vector R=3i^−6j^+6k^:
∣R∣=(3)2+(−6)2+(6)2
∣R∣=9+36+36
∣R∣=81
∣R∣=9
-
Determine the unit vector along R:
The unit vector in the direction of R, denoted as R^, is found by dividing the vector R by its magnitude ∣R∣.
R^=∣R∣R
R^=93i^−6j^+6k^
Now, distribute the division to each component:
R^=93i^−96j^+96k^
R^=31i^−32j^+32k^
This can also be written as:
R^=3i^−2j^+2k^
-
Compare with the given options:
(A) 3i^−6j^+6k^ (This is A+B, not the unit vector)
(B) 3i^−2j^+2k^ (This matches our calculated unit vector)
(C) 7i^+2j^+2k^
(D) 33i^+4j^+5k^
The calculated unit vector matches option (B).
✓Final answerThe unit vector along A+B is 3i^−2j^+2k^.
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- TG EAPCET 2025Set ap-2025-04-30-FN1 markMCQQ.A body of mass 0.2 kg is falling freely from a height of 180 m from the ground. The ratio of the works done by the gravitational force in the first two seconds and in the next two seconds of motion of the body is (A) 1 : 3 (B) 1 : 2 (C) 2 : 3 (D) 3 : 4
›Reveal solutionSolution
For a freely falling body, work done by gravity in successive equal time intervals follows the odd-number ratio of distances fallen: 1:3 for the first two seconds vs. the next two seconds. The answer is (A).
The key idea here is that work done by a constant force (gravity) is simply force times displacement in the direction of the force. Since gravitational force is constant (mg), the work done in any time interval is proportional to the distance fallen in that interval. So the ratio of works reduces to the ratio of distances covered in the first two seconds and the next two seconds of free fall.
For a body starting from rest under gravity (g=10m/s2 is standard for such problems), the distance fallen in time t is s=21gt2. This is a quadratic in t, so distances in successive equal time intervals follow the pattern 1:3:5:7… — a classic result from kinematics.
Let’s work it out step by step.
- Distance fallen in the first 2 seconds Using s=21gt2 with t=2 s and g=10m/s2:
s1=21×10×(2)2=21×10×4=20m.
- Distance fallen in the first 4 seconds (i.e., up to the end of the “next two seconds”)
s1+2=21×10×(4)2=21×10×16=80m.
- Distance fallen in the next two seconds (from t=2 to t=4) This is simply the difference:
s2=s1+2−s1=80−20=60m.
- Work done by gravity Work = force × displacement = mg× distance fallen. Since mg is constant, the ratio of works equals the ratio of distances:
W2W1=s2s1=6020=31.
Watch outA common mistake is to use s=21gt2 directly for the second interval by plugging t=2 again — that gives 20 m again, leading to a 1:1 ratio. But the formula s=21gt2 gives distance from start, not from any intermediate point. Always subtract to get the interval distance.
TipThe ratio 1:3 for distances in the first and second equal time intervals of free fall is a direct consequence of s∝t2. For t=1,2,3,… seconds, distances are 1,4,9,… times 21g, so the differences are 1,3,5,… — the odd numbers. This pattern saves time in many problems.
✓Final answerThe ratio of the works done is 1:3, which corresponds to option (A).
- TG EAPCET 2024Set eng-2024-05-11-FN1 markMCQQ.The electric flux due to an electric field E=(8i^+13j^) NC−1 through an area 3 m2 lying in the XZ plane is (A) 39 Wb (B) 24 Wb (C) 63 Wb (D) 15 Wb
›Reveal solutionSolution
Electric flux is the dot product of the electric field and the area vector. Since the area lies in the XZ plane, its vector points along the Y-axis, so only the j^ component of E contributes. The flux is 13×3=39 Wb, so the answer is (A).
The key idea is that electric flux Φ=E⋅A — a scalar product. That means only the component of the electric field perpendicular to the surface (i.e., parallel to the area vector) contributes. If the field has components that lie in the plane of the surface, they produce zero flux.
Here, the area lies in the XZ plane. The area vector is always perpendicular to the surface, so for the XZ plane, the perpendicular direction is the Y-axis. Thus A=Aj^ (or −j^, but magnitude is what matters for flux magnitude).
Let’s work through it:
-
Identify the area vector.
The area is 3 m2 and lies in the XZ plane. The normal to the XZ plane is the Y-axis. So we take A=3j^ m2.
-
Write the electric field.
E=8i^+13j^ NC−1.
-
Compute the dot product.
Φ=E⋅A=(8i^+13j^)⋅(3j^).
Since i^⋅j^=0, the 8i^ term contributes nothing.
So Φ=13×3=39 Nm2/C.
-
Units.
1 Nm2/C=1 Wb (weber), so the flux is 39 Wb.
Watch outA common mistake is to include the i^ component, forgetting that the area vector points along j^. Only the component of E parallel to A counts.
TipIf the surface were in the XY plane, the area vector would be along k^, and only the k^ component of E would matter. Always ask: “Which axis is perpendicular to the given plane?”
✓Final answerThe correct option is (A).
ANSWER: A
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- TG EAPCET 2023Set eng-2023-05-12-AN1 markMCQQ.If the work done in blowing a soap bubble of radius R is W, then the work done in blowing the soap bubble of radius 2R is (A) 6W (B) 12W (C) 4W (D) 2W
›Reveal solutionSolution
The work done in blowing a soap bubble equals the increase in surface energy, which is proportional to the surface area. Since area scales with the square of the radius, doubling the radius quadruples the area — but a bubble has two surfaces, so the work scales by a factor of 4. The answer is 4W, option (C).
Concept & Intuition
A soap bubble has two surfaces — an inner and an outer layer — each with surface tension. When you blow a bubble, you do work against surface tension to increase the total surface area. That work is stored as surface energy. The key is: work done = surface tension × total increase in surface area. For a bubble of radius R, the total surface area (both sides) is 2×4πR2=8πR2. So the work W is proportional to R2. If you double the radius, the area (and thus the work) multiplies by 22=4.
Step-by-step reasoning
- Work done = surface energy gained When a soap bubble is formed, the work done W equals the product of surface tension S and the total surface area created. Since a bubble has two surfaces, the total area for radius R is AR=2×4πR2=8πR2. Hence:
W=S⋅AR=S⋅8πR2.
- For radius 2R The total surface area becomes:
A2R=2×4π(2R)2=2×4π⋅4R2=32πR2.
- Work for the larger bubble Let the work done be W′:
W′=S⋅A2R=S⋅32πR2.
- Compare the two Divide W′ by W:
WW′=S⋅8πR2S⋅32πR2=832=4.
So W′=4W.
Watch outA common mistake is to forget that a soap bubble has two surfaces. If you treat it like a single surface (like a liquid drop), you’d get W′=2W, which is wrong. Always double-check: bubble = two layers.
TipYou don’t need the value of surface tension. Since it cancels out, the ratio of work depends only on the ratio of radii squared: (2R)2/R2=4.
✓Final answerThe correct option is (C).
ANSWER: C
- TG EAPCET 2022Set eng-2022-07-20-AN1 markMCQQ.A spherical drop of radium r is divided in to 8 equal droplets. If the surface tension is S, then the work done in the process will be (A) 2πr2S (B) 3πr2S (C) 4πr2S (D) 4πr2S2
›Reveal solutionSolution
When a large spherical drop is divided into smaller droplets, its total surface area increases. The work done in this process is equal to the increase in surface energy, which is the product of surface tension and the change in total surface area. For a drop of radius r divided into 8 equal droplets, the work done is 4πr2S.
The process of dividing a large liquid drop into smaller ones increases the total surface area of the liquid. Liquid surfaces possess surface energy, which is directly proportional to their surface area. To increase the surface area, work must be done against the cohesive forces between the liquid molecules, which manifest as surface tension. This work done is stored as additional surface energy.
The fundamental concept here is that the work done (W) in changing the surface area of a liquid is given by:
W=S×ΔA
where S is the surface tension and ΔA is the change in the total surface area of the liquid.
We need to calculate the initial total surface area and the final total surface area to find ΔA.
Here's how we approach the problem:
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Determine the radius of the smaller droplets:
The total volume of the liquid remains constant throughout the process. The original spherical drop has a radius r. Let the radius of each of the 8 smaller droplets be r′.
The volume of the original drop is Vinitial=34πr3.
The volume of one small droplet is Vdroplet=34π(r′)3.
Since the original drop is divided into 8 equal droplets, the total final volume is Vfinal=8×34π(r′)3.
Equating the initial and final volumes:
34πr3=8×34π(r′)3
r3=8(r′)3
Taking the cube root of both sides:
r=2r′
This gives us the radius of each small droplet: r′=2r.
-
Calculate the initial total surface area:
The original drop is a single sphere of radius r.
Its surface area is Ainitial=4πr2.
-
Calculate the final total surface area:
Each small droplet is a sphere of radius r′=2r.
The surface area of one small droplet is Aone_droplet=4π(r′)2=4π(2r)2=4π4r2=πr2.
Since there are 8 such droplets, the total final surface area is Afinal=8×Aone_droplet=8×πr2.
-
Calculate the change in total surface area (ΔA):
The change in surface area is the final total surface area minus the initial total surface area.
ΔA=Afinal−Ainitial
ΔA=8πr2−4πr2
ΔA=4πr2
-
Calculate the work done:
Using the formula W=S×ΔA:
W=S×(4πr2)
W=4πr2S
Watch outA common mistake is to forget to multiply the surface area of one small droplet by the total number of droplets (8 in this case) when calculating the final total surface area. Always consider the total surface area of all liquid surfaces.
✓Final answerThe work done in the process is 4πr2S.
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- TG EAPCET 2022Set ap-2022-07-31-AN1 markMCQQ.A 10 kg box is pulled on a rough horizontal surface. The force 40 N is applied at 60∘ angle from vertical. If co-efficient of kinetic friction is 0.25, what will the acceleration of the moving box? (Consider g=10m/s2) (A) 0.76m/s2 (B) 1.52m/s2 (C) 1.46m/s2 (D) 0.68m/s2
›Reveal solutionSolution
To find the acceleration, we first resolve the applied force into horizontal and vertical components. Then, we use the vertical forces to determine the normal force, which allows us to calculate the kinetic friction. Finally, we apply Newton's second law in the horizontal direction to find the acceleration. The acceleration of the box is 1.46m/s2.
When a box is pulled on a rough horizontal surface, several forces act on it. To determine its acceleration, we need to understand how these forces interact and apply Newton's laws of motion. The key idea is to break down the problem into components: first, analyze the forces in the vertical direction to find the normal force, and then use that to calculate the friction force. Once we have all horizontal forces, we can find the net horizontal force and thus the acceleration.
Here's how we approach this problem:
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Identify and Resolve Forces:
The box experiences four main forces:
- Weight (mg): Acting vertically downwards due to gravity.
- Normal Force (N): Acting vertically upwards, exerted by the surface on the box.
- Applied Force (F): Given as 40N at an angle. The problem states the angle is 60∘ from the vertical. This means the angle with the horizontal is 90∘−60∘=30∘. We need to resolve this force into its horizontal (Fx) and vertical (Fy) components.
- Kinetic Friction Force (fk): Acting horizontally, opposite to the direction of motion, because the surface is rough and the box is moving.
Let's calculate the components of the applied force F:
- Horizontal component: Fx=Fcos(30∘)
- Vertical component: Fy=Fsin(30∘)
Given F=40N:
Fx=40cos(30∘)=40(23)=203N
Fy=40sin(30∘)=40(21)=20N
Watch outAlways pay close attention to the angle given. If the angle is specified "from vertical", it's often easier to convert it to an angle "from horizontal" for standard component resolution. Here, 60∘ from vertical means 30∘ from horizontal.
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Analyze Vertical Forces to Find Normal Force:
The box is moving horizontally, so there is no acceleration in the vertical direction. This means the net force in the vertical direction is zero.
The forces acting vertically are the normal force (N) upwards, the weight (mg) downwards, and the vertical component of the applied force (Fy) upwards.
Using Newton's first law for vertical equilibrium:
N+Fy−mg=0
N=mg−Fy
Given m=10kg and g=10m/s2:
mg=10kg×10m/s2=100N
Substitute the values:
N=100N−20N=80N
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Calculate Kinetic Friction Force:
The kinetic friction force is directly proportional to the normal force.
The kinetic friction force fk is given by:
fk=μkN
where μk is the coefficient of kinetic friction and N is the normal force.
Given μk=0.25 and N=80N:
fk=0.25×80N=20N
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Analyze Horizontal Forces to Find Acceleration:
Now we apply Newton's second law in the horizontal direction. The net horizontal force causes the acceleration of the box.
The horizontal forces are the horizontal component of the applied force (Fx) in the direction of motion and the kinetic friction force (fk) opposing the motion.
Newton's Second Law states that the net force Fnet acting on an object is equal to the product of its mass m and acceleration a:
Fnet=ma
The net horizontal force Fnet,x is:
Fnet,x=Fx−fk
Substitute the values:
Fnet,x=203N−20N
Using 3≈1.732:
Fnet,x=20(1.732)N−20N
Fnet,x=34.64N−20N=14.64N
Now, use Newton's second law to find the acceleration a:
a=mFnet,x
a=10kg14.64N=1.464m/s2
Rounding to two decimal places, the acceleration is 1.46m/s2.
The calculated acceleration matches option (C).
✓Final answerThe acceleration of the moving box is 1.46m/s2.
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- TG EAPCET 2021Set ap-2021-08-10-AN1 markMCQQ.What is the elastic potential energy stored in a stretched steel wire of length 4 m. The wire is stretched through 4 mm and consists of cross sectional area of 8mm2. (Young's modulus of steel =2.0×1011N/m2) (A) 3.2J (B) 3.0J (C) 2.8J (D) 3.4J
›Reveal solutionSolution
The elastic potential energy stored in a stretched wire is given by U=21×stress×strain×volume. Using the given values, the energy comes out to 3.2J, so the correct option is (A).
The key idea here is that elastic potential energy in a stretched wire is the work done by the internal restoring force, which for a linear elastic material (obeying Hooke’s law) equals half the product of the force and the extension. But a more direct route uses stress and strain: since stress is proportional to strain, the energy per unit volume is 21×stress×strain. Multiply by the volume to get the total stored energy. This avoids needing to compute the force explicitly.
Let’s work through it step by step.
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Identify the given quantities and convert to SI units.
- Length of wire: L=4m
- Extension: ΔL=4mm=4×10−3m
- Cross-sectional area: A=8mm2=8×10−6m2
- Young’s modulus: Y=2.0×1011N/m2
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Compute the strain.
Strain is the fractional change in length:
strain=LΔL=44×10−3=1.0×10−3
- Compute the stress using Young’s modulus. Young’s modulus relates stress and strain:
Y=strainstress⇒stress=Y×strain
So:
stress=(2.0×1011)×(1.0×10−3)=2.0×108N/m2
- Find the volume of the wire. Volume = area × length:
V=A×L=(8×10−6)×4=3.2×10−5m3
- Apply the formula for elastic potential energy. For a material obeying Hooke’s law, the energy stored per unit volume is 21×stress×strain. Therefore:
U=21×stress×strain×volume
Substitute the values:
U=21×(2.0×108)×(1.0×10−3)×(3.2×10−5)
First multiply the stress and strain:
2.0×108×1.0×10−3=2.0×105
Then multiply by volume:
2.0×105×3.2×10−5=6.4
Finally, multiply by 21:
U=21×6.4=3.2J
TipA common shortcut: since stress=Y×strain, the energy formula becomes U=21Y(strain)2×volume. Plugging in gives the same result faster:
U=21×(2.0×1011)×(10−3)2×(3.2×10−5)=3.2J.
Watch outA classic mistake is forgetting to convert mm² to m² or mm to m. Using 8mm2 directly as 8×10−6m2 is correct, but using 8×10−3m2 would give a wildly wrong answer. Always check units!
✓Final answerThe correct option is (A).
ANSWER: A
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- TG EAPCET 2021Set ap-2021-08-10-FN1 markMCQQ.What is the elastic potential energy stored in a stretched steel wire of length 4 m. The wire is stretched through 4 mm and consists of cross sectional area of 8 mm2. (Young's modulus of steel = 2.0×1011 N/m2) (A) 3.2 J (B) 3.0 J (C) 2.8 J (D) 3.4 J
›Reveal solutionSolution
The elastic potential energy stored is U=21×stress×strain×volume=21LYA(ΔL)2. Substituting the given values gives 3.2 J, option (A).
Concept
Stretching a wire does work against interatomic forces, stored as elastic potential energy. For a linearly elastic material, the energy density is 21×stress×strain; multiplying by volume gives the total stored energy.
Step-by-step solution
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Given quantities
- L=4 m
- ΔL=4 mm=4×10−3 m
- A=8 mm2=8×10−6 m2
- Y=2.0×1011 N/m2
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Formula
U=21⋅Y⋅(LΔL)2⋅AL=21LYA(ΔL)2
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Substitute
(ΔL)2=(4×10−3)2=16×10−6 m2
Numerator: Y⋅A⋅(ΔL)2=(2.0×1011)(8×10−6)(16×10−6)=25.6
Divide by L=4: 25.6/4=6.4
Multiply by 21: U=3.2 J
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Cross-check via force: the final tension is F=LYAΔL=4(2.0×1011)(8×10−6)(4×10−3)=1600 N. Since the force rises linearly from 0 to F as the wire stretches, the work done is the area under the force–extension graph: U=21FΔL=21(1600)(4×10−3)=3.2 J — matching the direct formula.
TipA common mistake is forgetting to convert mm to m and mm² to m². Always work in SI units — one slip in a power of ten changes the answer drastically.
✓Final answerThe correct option is (A) 3.2 J.
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- TG EAPCET 2021Set eng-2021-08-04-AN1 markMCQQ.Consider a small block sliding down an inclined plane of inclination 30∘ with the horizontal. The coefficient of friction is μ=32x, where x is the distance (in meter) through which the mass slides down. The distance covered by the mass before it stops is (A) 23 m (B) 3 m (C) 32 m (D) 23 m
›Reveal solutionSolution
With friction growing as μ=32x, energy balance from rest to rest gives stopping distance L=3m, option (B).
Concept. The block starts at rest and finally stops, so its net kinetic-energy change over the slide is zero. Therefore the work done by gravity equals the work done against friction. Because friction varies with position, its work must be integrated.
Forces on the 30∘ incline. Along the incline gravity pulls with mgsin30∘. The friction force is
f(x)=μmgcos30∘=32x⋅mg⋅23=3mgx.
Energy balance over distance L (both endpoints at rest):
mgsin30∘⋅L=∫0L3mgxdx.
2mgL=3mg⋅2L2.
Solve for L (cancel the common 2mgL, with L=0):
1=3L⇒L=3m.
✓Final answerDistance covered before the block stops =3m — option (B).
- TG EAPCET 2021Set eng-2021-08-06-FN1 markMCQQ.A bullet of mass m enters a wooden block of length L at a speed v1 and emerges out of block with a speed v2. If F is the average force which impeded its motion through the wooden block then correct statement is (Assume uniform deceleration inside the block) (A) F=2Lm(v22−v12) (B) F=4Lm(v22+v12) (C) F=2Lm(v2−v1)2 (D) F=2Lm(v2+v1)2
›Reveal solutionSolution
The work-energy theorem states that the work done by the net force equals the change in kinetic energy. For an impeding force, this leads to the average force being F=2Lm(v22−v12).
Concept and Intuition
This problem involves a change in speed due to a force acting over a distance. The most direct way to relate force, displacement, and change in speed is through the Work-Energy Theorem.
The Work-Energy Theorem states that the net work done on an object is equal to the change in its kinetic energy:
Wnet=ΔKE=KEfinal−KEinitial
Here's why this approach is ideal:
- Work Done: When a constant force F acts over a displacement L, the work done is W=FL. The problem states "uniform deceleration," which implies a constant acceleration and thus a constant net force. Therefore, the average force F is simply this constant force.
- Kinetic Energy: The kinetic energy of an object of mass m moving with speed v is KE=21mv2. We are given initial and final speeds, v1 and v2.
- Sign Convention for Force: The problem asks for "F is the average force which impeded its motion". If we define the initial direction of motion as positive, then an impeding force acts in the opposite direction. This means the component of the force along the direction of motion will be negative. The Work-Energy Theorem naturally handles this sign: if the kinetic energy decreases, the work done must be negative, implying a force component opposite to displacement.
Step-by-Step Solution
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Identify Initial and Final Kinetic Energies:
The bullet enters the block with speed v1, so its initial kinetic energy is:
KEinitial=21mv12
The bullet emerges with speed v2, so its final kinetic energy is:
KEfinal=21mv22
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Calculate the Change in Kinetic Energy:
The change in kinetic energy is the final kinetic energy minus the initial kinetic energy:
ΔKE=KEfinal−KEinitial=21mv22−21mv12=21m(v22−v12)
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Express Work Done by the Average Force:
The average force F acts over the length L of the wooden block. Assuming the direction of motion is positive, the work done by this force is:
Wnet=FL
Here, F represents the component of the force along the direction of motion. Since the force impedes motion, we expect F to be negative (acting opposite to the positive direction of motion).
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Apply the Work-Energy Theorem:
According to the Work-Energy Theorem, the net work done equals the change in kinetic energy:
Wnet=ΔKE
Substituting the expressions from steps 2 and 3:
FL=21m(v22−v12)
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Solve for the Average Force F:
Divide both sides by L:
F=2Lm(v22−v12)
Watch outSince the bullet decelerates, v2<v1. This means (v22−v12) will be a negative value. Consequently, F will be negative. This negative sign correctly indicates that the force acts in the direction opposite to the bullet's initial motion, which is consistent with an "impeding" force. If the question asked for the magnitude of the impeding force, the answer would be 2Lm(v12−v22). However, standard physics convention for such questions implies F is the component of the force.
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Compare with Options:
The derived expression F=2Lm(v22−v12) matches option (A).
›Proof
Alternative Method: Using Kinematics
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Find Acceleration: Since the deceleration is uniform, the acceleration a is constant. We can use the kinematic equation relating initial velocity (u), final velocity (v), acceleration (a), and displacement (s):
v2=u2+2as
Here, u=v1, v=v2, and s=L.
v22=v12+2aL
Rearranging to solve for a:
2aL=v22−v12
a=2Lv22−v12
Since v2<v1, a will be negative, indicating deceleration.
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Apply Newton's Second Law: The average force F is related to the mass m and acceleration a by Newton's second law:
F=ma
Substitute the expression for a:
F=m(2Lv22−v12)
F=2Lm(v22−v12)
This kinematic approach yields the same result, confirming the answer.
✓Final answerThe correct statement for the average impeding force is (A) F=2Lm(v22−v12).
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